Product containers, packaging methods, and blanks and methods for making product containers

ABSTRACT

A product container includes a first compartment, including a first-compartment first edge, a second compartment, including a second-compartment first edge, and a hinged connection extending between the first-compartment first edge and the second-compartment first edge. The second compartment is pivotable about the hinged connection relative to the first compartment to convert the product container between a closed state and an open state. In the closed state, the first compartment and the second compartment are in a stacked configuration. In the open state, the first compartment and the second compartment are in a side-by-side configuration.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to product packaging and, more particularly, to product cartons that are convertible between shipping and display configurations, methods for packaging product, and blanks and methods for making product container.

BACKGROUND

Retail products are commonly shipped and stored in containers. Typically, such shipping containers must be altered to open the container in order to view, access, and/or unload the product contained therein, such as by dismantling a closure mechanism (e.g., tape, glue, or closure flap), removing a tear-away portion from the container, or cutting the container. Often opening the container alters the container to a point where it is no longer useful to transport, store, and/or display the product. Further, such containers are typically not designed to display the product or dispense the product through the life of the product. Additionally, in the age of product review videos and social media, the unboxing experience plays an important role in consumer opinion and satisfaction of the product.

Moreover, for cost and environmental considerations, such containers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are the strength of the container and its suitability for holding and transporting a weight of grouped articles. It is desirable that the contents of the container are securely held by the container and that the containers are easy for a consumer to grasp, carry, and open.

Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue with research and development efforts in the field of product packaging.

SUMMARY

Disclosed are a product carton, a blank for making a product carton, a method for making a product container, and a method for packaging product. The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may not be claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure.

In an example, the disclosed product container includes a first compartment, including a first-compartment first edge, a second compartment, including a second-compartment first edge, and a hinged connection extending between the first-compartment first edge and the second-compartment first edge. The second compartment is pivotable about the hinged connection relative to the first compartment to convert the product container between a closed state and an open state. In the closed state, the first compartment and the second compartment are in a stacked configuration. In the open state, the first compartment and the second compartment are in a side-by-side configuration.

In an example, the disclosed blank includes a first container-defining portion, including a first series of a plurality of panels, and a second container-defining portion, including a second series of the plurality of panels. The second container-defining portion extends from the first container-defining portion along a fold line.

In an example, the disclosed method for making a product container includes steps of:

(1) at least partially assembling a first compartment of the product container by folding a first compartment-defining portion along a first series of a plurality of fold lines provided therein; and (2) at least partially assembling a second compartment of the product container by folding a second compartment-defining portion along a second series of the plurality of fold lines provided therein. The second compartment is pivotable about a hinged connection relative to the first compartment to convert the product container between a closed state and an open state. In the closed state, the first compartment and the second compartment are in a stacked configuration. In the open state, the first compartment and the second compartment are in a side-by-side configuration.

In an example, the disclosed method for packaging product includes steps of: (1) at least partially assembling a first compartment and a second compartment of the product container by folding a first compartment-defining portion and a second compartment-defining portion along a plurality of fold lines provided therein; (2) in an open state of the product container, loading a first product into the first compartment and a second product into the second compartment; and (3) pivoting the second compartment relative to the first compartment about a hinged connection formed by one of the plurality of fold lines to convert the product container from the open state to a closed state.

Other examples of the disclosed product container, blank, and methods will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example of a product container, shown in a closed state;

FIG. 2 is an opposed perspective view of the first example of the product container, shown in the closed state;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the first example of the product container, shown converting from the closed state to an open state;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first example of the product carton, shown in the open state;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a first example of a blank used to form the product container;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second example of the product container, shown in a closed state;

FIG. 7 is an opposed perspective view of the second example of the product container, shown in the closed state;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the second example of the product container, shown converting from the closed state to an open state;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the second example of the product container, shown in the open state;

FIG. 10 is an opposed perspective view of the second example of the product container, shown in the open state; and

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a second example of the blank used to form the product carton.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-4 and 6-10 , by way of examples, the present disclosure is directed to a product container 100. The product container 100 is convertible between a closed state 102 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 6 and 7 ) and an open state 104 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4, 9 and 10 ). In the closed state 102, the product container 100 is in a shipping and/or handling configuration and serves (e.g., functions) as a shipping or transport container (e.g., “shipper”), a carrying container, a storage container, and the like. In the open state 104, the product container 100 is in a display or “in-use” configuration and serves (e.g., functions) as a display container, a giftbox, a product holder and/or dispenser, and the like.

For example, the product container 100 can be shipped (e.g., by a manufacturer, distributer, and/or retailer) and/or sold (e.g., by a retailer) in the closed state 102. The product container 100 can then be used as a unique product dispenser and/or an aesthetically pleasing product display throughout the life of the products contained by the product container 100. Accordingly, the product container 100 provides a unique dual-purpose functionality. Additionally, the product container 100 provides a unique hinged design that creates a positive “unboxing” experience.

Generally, the product container 100 includes at least two compartments. Each one of the compartments is configured to contain (e.g., hold and/or store) product. The compartments are hingedly connected to each other to provide access to all contents housed by each of the compartments. In a first illustrative example, the product container 100 includes two compartments, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 . In a second illustrative example, the product container 100 includes three compartments, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-10 .

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4 , in one or more examples, the product container 100 includes a first compartment 200, a second compartment 300, and a hinged connection 106. The second compartment 300 is pivotable about the hinged connection 106 relative to the first compartment 200 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) to convert the product container 100 between the closed state 102 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ) and the open state 104 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ).

The first compartment 200 is configured to contain first product. The second compartment 300 is configured to contain second product. In one or more examples, the first product and the second product are the same (e.g., the same type of product). In one or more examples, the first product and the second product are different (e.g., different types of products).

In the closed state 102, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 keep the first product and the second product segregated from each other. In the open state 104, the first compartment 200 displays or presents the first product and enables access to the first product. In the open state 104, the second compartment 300 displays or presents the second product and enables access to the second product.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are in a stacked configuration. In other words, in the closed state 102, the second compartment 300 is located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly on top of the first compartment 200 in vertical alignment or in a vertical orientation.

As best illustrated in FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are in a side-by-side configuration. In other words, in the open state 104, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly beside each other in horizontal alignment or in a horizontal orientation.

The product container 100 includes, or takes the form of, a plurality of walls that form, or define, an open internal volume that contains product (e.g., first product and second product). The first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 divide the internal volume of the product container 100 into two product-containing receptacles.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 , in one or more examples, the product container 100 includes a first sidewall 108, a second sidewall 110, a third sidewall 112, a fourth sidewall 114, a top wall 118 (e.g., upper wall), and a bottom wall 116 (e.g., lower wall). The first sidewall 108 and the second sidewall 110 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 extend between and are perpendicular to the first sidewall 108 and the second sidewall 110. The top wall 118 and the bottom wall 116 are opposite and parallel to each other. The top wall 118 and the bottom wall 116 extend between and are perpendicular to the first sidewall 108, the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, each one of the first sidewall 108, second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 of the product container 100 includes a first portion and a second portion.

In one or more examples, in the open state 104, each one of third sidewall 112, the fourth sidewall 114, the top wall 118, and the bottom wall 116 of the product container 100 includes a first portion and a second portion.

In one or more examples, the first and second portions of the first sidewall 108 are continuous. In other words, the first sidewall 108 is unitary wall structure.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first portion and the second portion of the first sidewall 108 are separated by the hinged connection 106 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) such that the second portion of the first sidewall 108 is pivotable relative to the first portion of the first sidewall 108 to enable the product container 100 to convert from the closed state 102 to the open state 104. In one or more examples, the first sidewall 108 is a monolithic structure and the hinged connection 106 is a fold line formed between the first portion and the second portion of the first sidewall 108.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first and second portions of the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 are discontinuous. In other words, each one of the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 includes a physical break between the first and second portions formed by adjacent edges of the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 such that each one of the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 is separable to enable the product container 100 to convert from the closed state 102 and the open state 104.

In one or more examples, in the open state 104, the first and second portions of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 are discontinuous. In other words, each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 includes a physical break between the first and second portions formed by adjacent edges of the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 such that each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 is separable to enable the product container 100 to convert from the open state 104 and the closed state 102.

In one or more examples, the first portions of the first sidewall 108, the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 form sidewalls of the first compartment 200. Similarly, in one or more examples, the second portions of the first sidewall 108, the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 form sidewalls of the second compartment 300.

In one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes a first-compartment first sidewall 202, a first-compartment second sidewall 204, a first-compartment third sidewall 206, a first-compartment fourth sidewall 208, a first-compartment bottom wall 210, and a first-compartment top wall 212. The first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the first-compartment second sidewall 204 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third sidewall 206 and the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third sidewall 206 and the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208 extend between and are perpendicular to the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the first-compartment second sidewall 204. The first-compartment bottom wall 210 and the first-compartment top wall 212 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment bottom wall 210 and the first-compartment top wall 212 extend between and are perpendicular to the first-compartment first sidewall 202, the first-compartment second sidewall 204, the first-compartment third sidewall 206, and the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208.

In one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes a first-compartment first edge 214, a first-compartment second edge 216, a first-compartment third edge 218, and a first-compartment fourth edge 220. The first-compartment first edge 214 and the first-compartment second edge 216 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third edge 218 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third edge 218 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 extend between and are perpendicular to the first-compartment first edge 214 and the first-compartment second edge 216.

In one or more examples, the first-compartment first edge 214 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment first sidewall 202. The first-compartment second edge 216 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment second sidewall 204. The first-compartment third edge 218 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment third sidewall 206. The first-compartment fourth edge 220 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208.

In one or more examples, the second compartment 300 includes a second-compartment first sidewall 302, a second-compartment second sidewall 304, a second-compartment third sidewall 306, a second-compartment fourth sidewall 308, a second-compartment bottom wall 310, and a second-compartment top wall 312. The second-compartment first sidewall 302 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third sidewall 306 and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third sidewall 306 and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308 extend between and are perpendicular to the second-compartment first sidewall 302 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304. The second-compartment bottom wall 310 and the second-compartment top wall 312 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment bottom wall 310 and the second-compartment top wall 312 extend between and are perpendicular to the second-compartment first sidewall 302, the second-compartment second sidewall 304, the second-compartment third sidewall 306, and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308.

In one or more examples, the second compartment 300 includes a second-compartment first edge 314, a second-compartment second edge 316, a second-compartment third edge 318, and a second-compartment fourth edge 320. The second-compartment first edge 314 and the second-compartment second edge 316 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third edge 318 and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third edge 318 and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 extend between and are perpendicular to the second-compartment first edge 314 and the second-compartment second edge 316.

In one or more examples, the second-compartment first edge 314 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment first sidewall 302. The second-compartment second edge 316 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment second sidewall 304. The second-compartment third edge 318 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment third sidewall 306. The second-compartment fourth edge 320 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 form, or define, the first sidewall 108 of the product container 100. The first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304 form, or define, the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100. The first-compartment third sidewall 206 and the second-compartment third sidewall 306 form, or define, the third sidewall 112 of the product container 100. The first-compartment fourth sidewall 208 and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308 form, or define, the fourth sidewall 114 of the product container 100. The first-compartment bottom wall 210 forms, or defines, the bottom wall 116 of the product container 100. The second-compartment bottom wall 310 forms, or defines, the top wall 118 of the product container 100. The first-compartment top wall 212 and the second-compartment top wall 312 form, or define, a divider wall 120 (e.g., a composite divider wall or two-layer divider wall) (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ) that divides the internal volume of the product container 100 into the first product-receptacle 222 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ), formed by the first compartment 200, and the second product-receptacle 322 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ), formed by the second compartment 300.

Referring to FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the second-compartment second sidewall 304 forms, or defines, the first sidewall 108 of the product container 100. The first-compartment second sidewall 204 forms, or defines, the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100. The first-compartment third sidewall 206 and the second-compartment third sidewall 306 form, or define, the third sidewall 112 of the product container 100. The first-compartment fourth sidewall 208 and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308 form, or define, the fourth sidewall 114 of the product container 100. The first-compartment bottom wall 210 and the second-compartment bottom wall 310 form, or define, the bottom wall 116 of the product container 100. The first-compartment top wall 212 and the second-compartment top wall 312 form, or define, the top wall 118 of the product container 100. The first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 form, or define, the divider wall 120 (e.g., a composite divider wall or two-layer divider wall) that divides, or segregates, the internal volume of the product container 100 into the first product-receptacle 222, formed by the first compartment 200, and the second product-receptacle 322, formed by the second compartment 300.

In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 extends between, or along, the first-compartment first edge 214 and the second-compartment first edge 314. In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 is integral to the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300. As an example, the hinged connection 106 is an integral connector that is connected to the first compartment 200 along a hinge line extending along the first-compartment first edge 214 and that is connected to the second compartment 300 along a hinge line extending along the second-compartment first edge 314.

In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 connects the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 together. In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 is integral to the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302. As an example, the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 are formed from a unitary portion of sheet material used to make the product container 100 (e.g., a blank of sheet material) and the hinged connection 106 is (e.g., is formed by) a fold line in the sheet material.

As best illustrated in FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment second edge 316 and the first-compartment second edge 216 are adjacent to (e.g., directly next to) each other. As an example, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment second edge 316 and the first-compartment second edge 216 are proximate (e.g., at or near) each other, are aligned (e.g., parallel) with each other, or are in contact with each other.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment third edge 318 and the first-compartment third edge 218 are adjacent to each other and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are adjacent to each other.

As best illustrated in FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the second-compartment second edge 316 and the first-compartment second edge 216 are spaced away from each other. Similarly, in the open state 104, the second-compartment third edge 318 and the first-compartment third edge 218 are spaced away from each other and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are spaced away from each other.

As best illustrated in FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304 are coplanar. The first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304 form the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304 are spaced apart from each other, are opposite each other, and are parallel to each other. The second-compartment second sidewall 304 forms the first sidewall 108 of the product container 100. The first-compartment second sidewall 204 forms the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIG. 1-3 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first-compartment top wall 212 and the second-compartment top wall 312 face each other. For example, first-compartment top wall 212 and the second-compartment top wall 312 are in a face-to-face relationship, are parallel to each other, and are proximate or in contact with each other. The first-compartment top wall 212 and the second-compartment top wall 312 form the divider wall 120 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIG. 4 , in one or more example, in the open state 104, the first-compartment top wall 132 and the second-compartment top wall 134 are coplanar. The first-compartment top wall 132 and the second-compartment top wall 134 form the top wall 118 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes a first opening 224. The first opening 224 is formed through the first-compartment top wall 212. The first opening 224 provides access to the first product contained within first product-receptacle 222 of the first compartment 200.

In one or more examples, the second compartment 300 includes a second opening 324. The second opening 324 is formed through the second-compartment top wall 312. The second opening 324 provides access the second product contained within the second product-receptacle 322 of the second compartment 300.

In one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes an additional opening 226. The additional opening 226 is formed through the first-compartment top wall 212. The additional opening 226 provides access to a third product contained within the first product-receptacle 222 of the first compartment 200. The third product may be different than that first product contained by the first compartment 200 and/or the second product contained by the second compartment 300.

While not explicitly illustrated, the second compartment 300 may also include an additional opening formed through the second-compartment top wall 312 to provide access to a fourth product contained within the second product-receptacle 322 of the second compartment 300.

While not explicitly illustrated, other additional openings may also be formed through one or both of the first-compartment top wall 212 and the second-compartment top wall 312 to provide access to additional products contained within the first compartment 200 and/or the second compartment 300.

The first opening 224, the second opening 324, the additional opening 226, or any other additional openings may have any suitable size (e.g., dimensions) and/or shape (e.g., two-dimensional shape). The size and/or shape of the first opening 224, the second opening 324, the additional opening 226, or any other additional openings may depend on the type and/or number of products contained by the first compartment 200 and/or the second compartment.

Referring to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the product container 100 includes at least one handle opening 130. The handle opening 130 may be defined by a cut, perforation, a combination thereof, or any means suitable for removing a portion of the product container 100 such that the handle opening 130 may be pushed out or formed in a sidewall of the product container 100. In one or more examples, the handle opening 130 is formed through each one of first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304. In an example, the handle opening 130 is generally rectangular or generally circular and generally oblong in shape. In one or more examples, the handle opening 130 may be a cutout such that it affords access to the internal volume of the product container 100. The handle opening 130 may be generally proportioned to accommodate a person's hand to extend into the internal volume. As an example, the handle opening 130 is configured to receive fingers to facilitate carrying the product container 100 in the closed state 102, converting the product container 100 between the closed state 102 and the open state 104, or other manual manipulation of the product container 100.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-10 , in one or more examples, the product container 100 includes the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, the hinged connection 106, a third compartment 400, and a second hinged connection 122. The second compartment 300 is pivotable about the hinged connection 106 relative to the first compartment 200 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8 ) to convert the product container 100 between the closed state 102 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 ) and the open state 104 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ). The third compartment 400 is pivotable about the second hinged connection 122 relative to the first compartment 200 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8 ) to convert the product container 100 between the closed state 102 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 ) and the open state 104 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ).

The first compartment 200 is configured to contain first product. The second compartment 300 is configured to contain second product. The third compartment 400 is configured to contain third product. In one or more examples, the first product, the second product, and the third product are the same (e.g., the same type of product). In one or more examples, at least one of the first product, the second product, and the third product are different from at least another one of the first product, the second product, and the third product (e.g., different types of products).

In the closed state 102, the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and the third compartment 400 keep the first product, the second product, and the third product segregated from each other. In the open state 104, the first compartment 200 displays or presents the first product and enables access to the first product. In the open state 104, the second compartment 300 displays or presents the second product and enables access to the second product. In the open state 104, the third compartment 400 displays or presents the third product and enables access to the third product.

As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are in a stacked configuration. In other words, in the closed state 102, the second compartment 300 is located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly on top of the first compartment 200 in vertical alignment or in a vertical orientation. In the closed state 102, the first compartment 200 and the third compartment 400 are in a stacked configuration. In other words, in the closed state 102, the third compartment 400 is located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly on top of the first compartment 200 in vertical alignment or in a vertical orientation. In the closed state 102, the second compartment 300 and the third compartment 400 are in a side-by-side configuration. In other words, in the closed state 102, the second compartment 300 and the third compartment 400 are located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly beside each other in horizontal alignment or in a horizontal orientation.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and the third compartment 400 are in a side-by-side configuration. In other words, in the open state 104, the second compartment 300 is located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly beside the first compartment 200 and the third compartment 400 is located, positioned, or otherwise disposed directly beside the first compartment 200, opposite the second compartment 300, in horizontal alignment or in a horizontal orientation.

The product container 100 includes, or takes the form of, a plurality of walls that form, or define, an open internal volume that contains product (e.g., first product, second product, and third product). The first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and the third compartment 400 divide the internal volume of the product container 100 into three product-containing receptacles.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, 9 and 10 , in one or more examples, the product container 100 includes the first sidewall 108, the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, the fourth sidewall 114, the top wall 118 (e.g., upper wall), and the bottom wall 116 (e.g., lower wall).

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, each one of the first sidewall 108, the second sidewall 110, and the top wall 118 of the product container 100 includes a first portion and a second portion.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 of the product container 100 includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion.

In one or more examples, in the open state 104, each one of the third sidewall, 112, the fourth sidewall 114, and the bottom wall 116 of the product container 100 includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion.

In one or more examples, in the open state 104, the top wall 118 of the product container 100 includes a first portion and a second portion.

In one or more examples, the first and second portions of the first sidewall 108 and the second sidewall 110 are continuous. In other words, each one of the first sidewall 108 and the second sidewall 110 is unitary wall structure.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first portion and the second portion of the first sidewall 108 are separated by the hinged connection 106 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6 ) such that the second portion of the first sidewall 108 is pivotable relative to the first portion of the first sidewall 108 to enable the product container 100 to convert from the closed state 102 to the open state 104. In one or more examples, the first sidewall 108 is a monolithic structure and the hinged connection 106 is a fold line formed between the first portion and the second portion of the first sidewall 108.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first portion and the second portion of the second sidewall 110 are separated by the second hinged connection 122 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 7 ) such that the second portion of the second sidewall 110 is pivotable relative to the first portion of the second sidewall 110 to enable the product container 100 to convert from the closed state 102 to the open state 104. In one or more examples, the second sidewall 110 is a monolithic structure and the second hinged connection 122 is a fold line formed between the first portion and the second portion of the second sidewall 110.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first and second portions of the top wall 118 are discontinuous. In other words, the top wall 118 includes a physical break between the first and second portions formed by adjacent edges of the second compartment 300 and the third compartment 400 such that the top wall 118 is separable to enable the product container 100 to convert from the closed state 102 to the open state 104.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first, second, and third portions of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 are discontinuous. In other words, each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 includes a physical break between the first, second, and third portions formed by adjacent edges of the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and the third compartment 400 such that each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 is separable to enable the product container 100 to convert from the closed state 102 to the open state 104.

In one or more examples, in the open state 104, the first and second portions of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 are discontinuous. In other words, each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 includes a physical break between the first and second portions formed by adjacent edges of the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and the third compartment 400 such that each one of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 is separable to enable the product container 100 to convert from the open state 104 and the closed state 102.

In one or more examples, the first portions of the first sidewall 108, the second sidewall 110, the third sidewall 112, and the fourth sidewall 114 form sidewalls of the first compartment 200. In one or more examples, the second portion of the first sidewall 108 forms a sidewall of the second compartment 300. In one or more examples, the second portion of the second sidewall 110 forms a sidewall of the third compartment 400. In one or more examples, the second portions of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 form sidewalls of the second compartment 300. In one or more examples, the third portions of the third sidewall 112 and the fourth sidewall 114 form sidewalls of the third compartment 400.

In one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes the first-compartment first sidewall 202, the first-compartment second sidewall 204, the first-compartment third sidewall 206, the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208, and the first-compartment bottom wall 210. The first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the first-compartment second sidewall 204 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third sidewall 206 and the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third sidewall 206 and the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208 extend between and are perpendicular to the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the first-compartment second sidewall 204. The first-compartment bottom wall 210 extends between and is perpendicular to the first-compartment first sidewall 202, the first-compartment second sidewall 204, the first-compartment third sidewall 206, and the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208.

In one or more examples, as best illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the first compartment 200 has an open top end. In other words, in one or more examples, the first compartment 200 does not include the first-compartment top wall 212 or the first opening 224 of the first compartment 200 is defined by edges of the first compartment 200. However, in other examples (not explicitly illustrated), the first compartment 200 includes the first-compartment top wall 212 and the first opening 224 formed through the first-compartment top wall 212.

In one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes the first-compartment first edge 214, the first-compartment second edge 216, the first-compartment third edge 218, and the first-compartment fourth edge 220. The first-compartment first edge 214 and the first-compartment second edge 216 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third edge 218 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are opposite and parallel to each other. The first-compartment third edge 218 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 extend between and are perpendicular to the first-compartment first edge 214 and the first-compartment second edge 216.

In one or more examples, the first opening 224 of the first compartment 200 is formed, or defined, by first-compartment first edge 214, the first-compartment second edge 216, the first-compartment third edge 218, and the first-compartment fourth edge 220.

In one or more examples, the first-compartment first edge 214 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment first sidewall 202. The first-compartment second edge 216 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment second sidewall 204. The first-compartment third edge 218 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment third sidewall 206. The first-compartment fourth edge 220 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208.

In one or more examples, the second compartment 300 includes the second-compartment first sidewall 302, the second-compartment second sidewall 304, the second-compartment third sidewall 306, the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308, the second-compartment bottom wall 310, and the second-compartment top wall 312. The second-compartment first sidewall 302 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third sidewall 306 and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third sidewall 306 and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308 extend between and are perpendicular to the second-compartment first sidewall 302 and the second-compartment second sidewall 304. The second-compartment bottom wall 310 and the second-compartment top wall 312 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment bottom wall 310 and the second-compartment top wall 312 extend between and are perpendicular to the second-compartment first sidewall 302, the second-compartment second sidewall 304, the second-compartment third sidewall 306, and the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308.

In one or more examples, the second compartment 300 includes the second-compartment first edge 314, the second-compartment second edge 316, the second-compartment third edge 318, and the second-compartment fourth edge 320. The second-compartment first edge 314 and the second-compartment second edge 316 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third edge 318 and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 are opposite and parallel to each other. The second-compartment third edge 318 and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 extend between and are perpendicular to the second-compartment first edge 314 and the second-compartment second edge 316.

In one or more examples, the second-compartment first edge 314 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment first sidewall 302. The second-compartment second edge 316 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment second sidewall 304. The second-compartment third edge 318 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment third sidewall 306. The second-compartment fourth edge 320 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308.

In one or more examples, the third compartment 400 includes a third-compartment first sidewall 402, a third-compartment second sidewall 404, a third-compartment third sidewall 406, a third-compartment fourth sidewall 408, a third-compartment bottom wall 410, and a third-compartment top wall 412. The third-compartment first sidewall 402 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third-compartment third sidewall 406 and the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third-compartment third sidewall 406 and the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408 extend between and are perpendicular to the third-compartment first sidewall 402 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404. The third-compartment bottom wall 410 and a third-compartment top wall 412 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third-compartment bottom wall 410 and a third-compartment top wall 412 extend between and are perpendicular to the third-compartment first sidewall 402, the third-compartment second sidewall 404, the third-compartment third sidewall 406, and the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408.

In one or more examples, the third compartment 400 includes a third-compartment first edge 414, a third-compartment second edge 416, a third-compartment third edge 418, and a third-compartment fourth edge 420. The third-compartment first edge 414 and the third-compartment second edge 416 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third-compartment third edge 418 and the third-compartment fourth edge 420 are opposite and parallel to each other. The third-compartment third edge 418 and the third-compartment fourth edge 420 extend between and are perpendicular to the third-compartment first edge 414 and the third-compartment second edge 416.

In one or more examples, the third-compartment first edge 414 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the third-compartment first sidewall 402. The third-compartment second edge 416 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the third-compartment second sidewall 404. The third-compartment third edge 418 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the third-compartment third sidewall 406. The third-compartment fourth edge 420 is formed, or defined, by an edge of the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 form, or define, the first sidewall 108 of the product container 100. The first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the third-compartment first sidewall 402 form, or define, the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100. The first-compartment third sidewall 206, the second-compartment third sidewall 306, and the third-compartment third sidewall 406 form, or define, the third sidewall 112 of the product container 100. The first-compartment fourth sidewall 208, the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308, and the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408 form, or define, the fourth sidewall 114 of the product container 100. The first-compartment bottom wall 210 forms, or defines, the bottom wall 116 of the product container 100. The second-compartment bottom wall 310 and the third-compartment bottom wall 410 form, or define, the top wall 118 of the product container 100. The second-compartment top wall 312 forms, or defines, a first divider wall 124 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8 ) that partially divides the internal volume of the product container 100 into the first product-receptacle 222 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ), formed by the first compartment 200, and the second product-receptacle 322 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9 ), formed by the second compartment 300. The third-compartment top wall 412 forms, or defines, a second divider wall 126 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8 ) that partially divides the internal volume of the product container 100 into the first product-receptacle 222 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ), formed by the first compartment 200, and a third product-receptacle 422 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10 ), formed by the second compartment 300. The second-compartment second sidewall 304 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404 form, or define, a third divider wall 128 (e.g., a composite divider wall or two-layer divider wall) (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8 ) that partially divides the internal volume of the product container 100 into the second product-receptacle 322 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9 ), formed by the second compartment 300, and the third product-receptacle 422 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10 ), formed by the third compartment 400.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the second-compartment second sidewall 304 forms, or defines, the first sidewall 108 of the product container 100. The third-compartment second sidewall 404 forms, or defines, the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100. The first-compartment third sidewall 206, the second-compartment third sidewall 306, and the third-compartment third sidewall 406 form, or define, the third sidewall 112 of the product container 100. The first-compartment fourth sidewall 208, the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308, and the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408 form, or define, the fourth sidewall 114 of the product container 100. The first-compartment bottom wall 210, the second-compartment bottom wall 310, and the third-compartment bottom wall 410 form, or define, the bottom wall 116 of the product container 100. The second-compartment top wall 312 and the third-compartment top wall 412 form, or define, the top wall 118 of the product container 100. The first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 at least partially form, or define, the first divider wall 124 (e.g., a composite divider wall or two-layer divider wall) that partially divides, or segregates, the internal volume of the product container 100 into the first product-receptacle 222, formed by the first compartment 200, and the second product-receptacle 322, formed by the second compartment 300. The first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the third-compartment first sidewall 402 at least partially form, or define, the second divider wall 126 (e.g., a composite divider wall or two-layer divider wall) that partially divides, or segregates, the internal volume of the product container 100 into the first product-receptacle 222, formed by the first compartment 200, and the third product-receptacle 422, formed by the third compartment 400.

In one or more examples, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , in the open state 104, the top wall 118 of the product container 100 includes two separate portions formed by the second-compartment top wall 312 and the third-compartment top wall 412, which are separated by the first compartment 200 with the open top. However, in other examples (not explicitly illustrated), the top wall 118 of the product container 100 may include three portions formed by the first-compartment top wall 212 (e.g., when present), the second-compartment top wall 312, and the third-compartment top wall 412. In such examples, the first-compartment top wall 212 (e.g., when present), the second-compartment top wall 312, and the third-compartment top wall 412 may be coplanar or may reside in different virtual planes.

In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 extends between, or along, the first-compartment first edge 214 and the second-compartment first edge 314. In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 is integral to the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300. As an example, the hinged connection 106 is an integral connector that is connected to the first compartment 200 along a hinge line extending along the first-compartment first edge 214 and that is connected to the second compartment 300 along a hinge line extending along the second-compartment first edge 314.

In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 connects the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 together. In one or more examples, the hinged connection 106 is integral to the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302. As an example, the first-compartment first sidewall 202 and the second-compartment first sidewall 302 are formed from a unitary portion of sheet material used to make the product container 100 (e.g., a blank of sheet material) and the hinged connection 106 is (e.g., is formed by) a fold line in the sheet material.

In one or more examples, the second hinged connection 122 extends between, or along, the first-compartment second edge 216 and the third-compartment first edge 414. In one or more examples, the second hinged connection 122 is integral to the first compartment 200 and the third compartment 400. As an example, the second hinged connection 122 is an integral connector that is connected to the first compartment 200 along a hinge line extending along the first-compartment second edge 216 and that is connected to the third compartment 400 along a hinge line extending along the third-compartment first edge 414.

In one or more examples, the second hinged connection 122 connects the first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the third-compartment first sidewall 402 together. In one or more examples, the second hinged connection 122 is integral to the first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the third-compartment first sidewall 402. As an example, the first-compartment second sidewall 204 and the third-compartment first sidewall 402 are formed from a unitary portion of sheet material used to make the product container 100 (e.g., a blank of sheet material) and the second hinged connection 122 is (e.g., is formed by) a fold line in the sheet material.

As best illustrated in FIG. 8 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment second edge 316 and the third-compartment second edge 416 are adjacent to (e.g., directly next to) each other. As an example, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment second edge 316 and the third-compartment second edge 416 are proximate (e.g., at or near) each other, are aligned (e.g., parallel) with each other, or are in contact with each other.

In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment third edge 318 and the first-compartment third edge 218 are adjacent to each other and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are adjacent to each other. In one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the third-compartment third edge 418 and the first-compartment third edge 218 are adjacent to each other and the third-compartment fourth edge 420 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are adjacent to each other.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the second-compartment second edge 316 and the third-compartment second edge 416 are spaced away from each other. Similarly, in the open state 104, the second-compartment third edge 318 and the first-compartment third edge 218 are spaced away from each other and the second-compartment fourth edge 320 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are spaced away from each other. In the open state 104, the third-compartment third edge 418 and the first-compartment third edge 218 are spaced away from each other and the third-compartment fourth edge 420 and the first-compartment fourth edge 220 are spaced away from each other.

As best illustrated in FIG. 8 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment second sidewall 304 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404 are face each other. For example, the second-compartment second sidewall 304 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404 are in a face-to-face relationship, are parallel to each other, and are proximate or in contact with each other. The second-compartment second sidewall 304 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404 form the third divider wall 128 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , in the open state 104, the second-compartment second sidewall 340 and the third-compartment second sidewall 404 are spaced apart from each other, are opposite each other, and are parallel to each other. The second-compartment second sidewall 304 forms the first sidewall 108 of the product container 100. The third-compartment second sidewall 404 forms the second sidewall 110 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIG. 6-8 , in one or more examples, in the closed state 102, the second-compartment top wall 312 and the third-compartment top wall 412 are coplanar and face the first-compartment bottom wall 210. The second-compartment top wall 312 forms the first divider wall 124. The third-compartment top wall 412 forms the second divider wall 126.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , in one or more examples, in the open state 104, the second-compartment top wall 312 and the third-compartment top wall 412 are coplanar. The second-compartment top wall 312 and the third-compartment top wall 412 form at least a portion of the top wall 118 of the product container 100.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , in one or more examples, the first compartment 200 includes the first opening 224. In one or more examples, the first opening 224 is formed by the edges of the first compartment 200 (e.g., the first compartment 200 has an open top). The first opening 224 provides access to the first product contained within first product-receptacle 222 of the first compartment 200.

In one or more examples, the second compartment 300 includes the second opening 324. The second opening 324 is formed through the second-compartment top wall 312. The second opening 324 provides access the second product contained within the second product-receptacle 322 of the second compartment 300.

In one or more examples, the third compartment 400 includes a third opening 424. The third opening 424 is formed through the third-compartment top wall 412. The third opening 424 provides access the third product contained within the third product-receptacle 422 of the third compartment 400.

While not explicitly illustrated, additional openings may also be formed through one or both of the second-compartment top wall 312 and the third-compartment top wall 412 to provide access to additional products contained within the second compartment 300 and/or the third compartment 400.

The first opening 224, the second opening 324, the third opening 424, or any other additional openings may have any suitable size (e.g., dimensions) and/or shape (e.g., two-dimensional shape). The size and/or shape of the first opening 224, the second opening 324, the third opening 424, or any other additional openings may depend on the type and/or number of products contained by the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and/or the third compartment 400.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 11 , by way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to a blank 500 for making (e.g., forming, assembling, or constructing) the product container 100. The blank 500 is formed into an assembled product container 100.

Generally, the blank 500 includes at least two compartment-defining portions. Each one of the compartment-defining portions is configured to the constructed into one of the compartments of the product container 100. In a first illustrative example, the blank 500 includes two compartment-defining portions, as illustrated in FIG. 5 , and is used to construct the first illustrative example of the product container 100, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 . In a second illustrative example, the blank 500 includes three compartment-defining portions, as illustrated in FIG. 11 , and is used to construct the second illustrative example of the product container 100, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-10 .

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 11 , the blank 500 has an exterior surface and an interior surface, which is opposite the exterior surface. The exterior surface of the blank 500 generally defines at least a portion of an exterior surface of the product container 100. The interior surface of the blank 500 generally defines at least a portion of an interior surface of the product container 100. In one or more examples, portions of the exterior surface and/or the interior surface of the blank 500 may include printed graphics, such as advertising and/or promotional materials.

Generally, the blank 500 is a single, unitary sheet of suitable substrate. The blank 500 provides the packaging structure of the product container 100. The blank 500 includes a plurality of panels 508. The panels 508 are aligned and are connected together, in series, by a plurality of preformed fold lines 510. Generally, the panels 508 included in the blank 500 correspond to and are used to form the sidewalls, bottom walls, and top walls of the compartments of the product container 100.

Referring to FIG. 6 , in one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a first compartment-defining portion 502 and a second compartment-defining portion 504 that is connected to or that extends from the first compartment-defining portion 502. In one or more examples, the second compartment-defining portion 504 is connected to or extends from the first compartment-defining portion 502 along fold line 506. Fold line 506 forms, or defines, the hinged connection 106 of the product container 100. The first compartment-defining portion 502 includes, or is at least partially formed by, a first series of the panels 508. The second compartment-defining portion 504 includes, or is at least partially formed by, a second series of the panels 508.

In one or more examples, the first compartment-defining portion 502 includes a first-compartment first side panel 512, a first-compartment second side panel 514, a first-compartment third side panel 516, a first-compartment fourth side panel 518, a first-compartment bottom panel 520, and a first-compartment top panel 522 that are connected together by preformed fold lines.

In one or more examples, the first-compartment bottom panel 520 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment first side panel 512. The first-compartment second side panel 514 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520, opposite the first-compartment first side panel 512. The first-compartment top panel 522 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment second side panel 514, opposite the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The first-compartment third side panel 516 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The first-compartment fourth side panel 518 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520, opposite the first-compartment third side panel 516.

The first-compartment first side panel 512 forms, or defines, the first-compartment first sidewall 202. The first-compartment second side panel 514 forms, or defines, the first-compartment second sidewall 204. The first-compartment third side panel 516 forms, or defines, the first-compartment third sidewall 206. The first-compartment fourth side panel 518 forms, or defines, the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208. The first-compartment bottom panel 520 forms, or defines, the first-compartment bottom wall 210. The first-compartment top panel 522 forms, or defines, the first-compartment top wall 212.

In one or more examples, the second compartment-defining portion 504 includes a second-compartment first side panel 524, a second-compartment second side panel 526, a second-compartment third side panel 528, a second-compartment fourth side panel 530, a second-compartment bottom panel 532, and a second-compartment top panel 534 that are connected together by preformed fold lines.

In one or more examples, the second-compartment first side panel 524 is foldably (e.g., hingedly connected) to the first-compartment first side panel 512, opposite the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The second-compartment bottom panel 532 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment first side panel 524, opposite the first-compartment first side panel 512. The second-compartment second side panel 526 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment bottom panel 532, opposite the second-compartment first side panel 524. The second-compartment top panel 534 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment second side panel 526, opposite the second-compartment bottom panel 532. The second-compartment third side panel 528 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment bottom panel 532. The second-compartment fourth side panel 530 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment bottom panel 532, opposite the second-compartment third side panel 528.

The second-compartment first side panel 524 forms, or defines, the second-compartment first sidewall 302. The second-compartment second side panel 526 forms, or defines, the second-compartment second sidewall 304. The second-compartment third side panel 528 forms, or defines, the second-compartment third sidewall 306. The second-compartment fourth side panel 530 forms, or defines, the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308. The second-compartment bottom panel 532 forms, or defines, the second-compartment bottom wall 310. The second-compartment top panel 534 forms, or defines, the second-compartment top wall 312.

In one or more examples, the first-compartment first side panel 512 extends from fold line 506 to fold line 536, which is generally parallel to fold line 506. The first-compartment bottom panel 520 extends from fold line 536 to fold line 538, which is generally parallel to fold line 536. The first-compartment second side panel 514 extends from fold line 538 to fold line 540, which is generally parallel to fold line 538. The first-compartment top panel 522 extends from fold line 540. The first-compartment third side panel 516 extends from fold line 542, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold lines 536, 538. The first-compartment fourth side panel 518 extends from fold line 544, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold line 536, 538 and generally parallel to fold line 542.

In one or more examples, the second-compartment first side panel 524 extends from fold line 506 to fold line 546, which is generally parallel to fold line 506. The second-compartment bottom panel 532 extends from fold line 546 to fold line 548, which is generally parallel to fold line 546. The second-compartment second side panel 526 extends from fold line 548 to fold line 550, which is generally parallel to fold line 548. The second-compartment top panel 534 extends from fold line 550. The second-compartment third side panel 528 extends from fold line 552, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold lines 546, 548. The second-compartment fourth side panel 530 extends from fold line 554, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold line 546, 548 and generally parallel to fold line 552.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a first aperture 594 formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The first aperture 594 forms, or defines, the first opening 224 of the first compartment 200. The first aperture 594 may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the first aperture 594 is formed though the first-compartment top panel 522.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a second aperture 596 formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The second aperture 596 forms, or defines, the second opening 324 of the second compartment 300. The second aperture 596 may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the second aperture 596 is formed though the second-compartment top panel 534.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes at least one additional aperture 598 formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The additional aperture 598 forms, or defines, the additional opening 226 of the first compartment 200 and/or the second compartment 300. The additional aperture 598 may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the additional aperture 598 is formed though the first-compartment top panel 522 and/or the second-compartment top panel 534.

In one or more examples, at least one handle aperture 556 is formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The handle aperture 556 forms, or defines, the handle opening 130 of the product container 100. The handle aperture 556 may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the handle aperture 556 is formed though the first-compartment second side panel 514 and the second-compartment second side panel 526.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 also includes a plurality of flaps 558. The flaps 558 are connected to corresponding ones of the panels 508 by corresponding ones of the fold line 510. Generally, the flaps 558 are used to construct the product container 100, secure the product container 100 in the assembled state, and/or provide additional rigidity or strength to the packaging structure of the product container 100.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a first closure flap 560. The first closure flap 560 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment top panel 522, opposite the first-compartment second side panel 514. In one or more examples, the first closure flap 560 extends from fold line 564, which is generally parallel to fold line 540, to a first edge 568 of the blank 500, which is generally parallel to fold line 564.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a second closure flap 562. The second closure flap 562 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment top panel 534, opposite the second-compartment second side panel 526. In one or more examples, the second closure flap 562 extends from fold line 566, which is generally parallel to fold line 550, to a second edge 570 of the blank 500, which is generally parallel to fold line 566.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a third closure flap 572. The third closure flap 572 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment third side panel 516, opposite the first-compartment bottom panel 520. In one or more examples, the third closure flap 572 extends from fold line 576, which is generally parallel to fold line 542.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a fourth closure flap 574. The fourth closure flap 574 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment fourth side panel 518, opposite the first-compartment bottom panel 520. In one or more examples, the fourth closure flap 574 extends from fold line 578, which is generally parallel to fold line 544.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a fifth closure flap 580. The fifth closure flap 580 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment third side panel 528, opposite the second-compartment bottom panel 532. In one or more examples, the fifth closure flap 580 extends from fold line 584, which is generally parallel to fold line 552.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a sixth closure flap 582. The sixth closure flap 582 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment fourth side panel 530, opposite the second-compartment bottom panel 532. In one or more examples, the sixth closure flap 582 extends from fold line 586, which is generally parallel to fold line 554.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes at least one closure tab 588 and at least one closure aperture 590. At least a portion of the closure tab 588 is configured to be received by and to fit within the closure aperture 590 to secure one or more of the panel 508 of the blank 500 in the assembled state after construction of the product container 100. In one or more examples, the closure tab 588 extends from an edge of at least one of the closure flaps (e.g., closure flaps 572, 574, 580, 582 as shown in FIG. 6 ), opposite a corresponding fold line (e.g., fold lines 576, 578, 584, 586 as shown in FIG. 6 ). The closure aperture 590, which corresponds to the closure tab 588, is formed through the blank 500 along at least one fold line (e.g., fold line 542, 544, 552, 554 as shown in FIG. 6 ).

In one or more examples, the blank 500 may also include at least one additional flap 592. The additional flap 592 is connected to a corresponding one of the panels 508 (e.g., panels 512, 514, 522, 524, 526, 534 as shown in FIG. 6 ). The additional flap 592 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the corresponding one of the panels 508. In one or more examples, the additional flap 592 extends from a corresponding fold line. In one or more examples, one or more of the additional flaps 592 is a glue flap and is configured to be folded into a face-to-face and parallel position with and connected (e.g., adhered) to a face of a corresponding panel 508 to secure the product container 100 in the assembled state. In one or more examples, one or more of the additional flaps 592 is a lip flap and is configured to be folded into a face-to-face and parallel position with a corresponding panel 508 to provide strength and/or rigidity to the product container 100 in the assembled state.

Referring now to FIG. 11 , in one or more examples, the blank 500 includes the first compartment-defining portion 502, the second compartment-defining portion 504, which is connected to or that extends from the first compartment-defining portion 502, and a third compartment-defining portion 600, which is connected to or that extends from the first compartment-defining portion 502 opposite the second compartment-defining portion 504. In one or more examples, the second compartment-defining portion 504 is connected to or extends from the first compartment-defining portion 502 along fold line 506. Fold line 506 forms, or defines, the hinged connection 106 of the product container 100. In one or more examples, the third compartment-defining portion 600 is connected to or extends from the first compartment-defining portion 502 along fold line 602. Fold line 602 forms, or defines, the second hinged connection 122 of the product container 100.

The first compartment-defining portion 502 includes, or is at least partially formed by, a first series of the panels 508. The second compartment-defining portion 504 includes, or is at least partially formed by, a second series of the panels 508. The third compartment-defining portion 600 includes, or is at least partially formed by, a third series of the panels 508.

In one or more examples, the first compartment-defining portion 502 includes the first-compartment first side panel 512, the first-compartment second side panel 514, the first-compartment third side panel 516, the first-compartment fourth side panel 518, and the first-compartment bottom panel 520 that are connected together by preformed fold lines.

In one or more examples, the first-compartment first side panel 512 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The first-compartment second side panel 514 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520, opposite the first-compartment first side panel 512. The first-compartment third side panel 516 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The first-compartment fourth side panel 518 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the first-compartment bottom panel 520, opposite the first-compartment third side panel 516.

The first-compartment first side panel 512 forms, or defines, the first-compartment first sidewall 202. The first-compartment second side panel 514 forms, or defines, the first-compartment second sidewall 204. The first-compartment third side panel 516 forms, or defines, the first-compartment third sidewall 206. The first-compartment fourth side panel 518 forms, or defines, the first-compartment fourth sidewall 208. The first-compartment bottom panel 520 forms, or defines, the first-compartment bottom wall 210.

In one or more examples, the second compartment-defining portion 504 includes the second-compartment first side panel 524, the second-compartment second side panel 526, the second-compartment third side panel 528, the second-compartment fourth side panel 530, the second-compartment bottom panel 532, and the second-compartment top panel 534 that are connected together by preformed fold lines.

In one or more examples, the second-compartment first side panel 524 is foldably (e.g., hingedly connected) to the first-compartment first side panel 512, opposite the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The second-compartment bottom panel 532 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment first side panel 524, opposite the first-compartment first side panel 512. The second-compartment second side panel 526 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment bottom panel 532, opposite the second-compartment first side panel 524. The second-compartment top panel 534 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment second side panel 526, opposite the second-compartment bottom panel 532. The second-compartment third side panel 528 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment first side panel 524. The second-compartment fourth side panel 530 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the second-compartment first side panel 524, opposite the second-compartment third side panel 528.

The second-compartment first side panel 524 forms, or defines, the second-compartment first sidewall 302. The second-compartment second side panel 526 forms, or defines, the second-compartment second sidewall 304. The second-compartment third side panel 528 forms, or defines, the second-compartment third sidewall 306. The second-compartment fourth side panel 530 forms, or defines, the second-compartment fourth sidewall 308. The second-compartment bottom panel 532 forms, or defines, the second-compartment bottom wall 310. The second-compartment top panel 534 forms, or defines, the second-compartment top wall 312.

In one or more examples, the third compartment-defining portion 600 includes a third-compartment first side panel 604, a third-compartment second side panel 606, a third-compartment third side panel 608, a third-compartment fourth side panel 610, a third-compartment bottom panel 612, and a third-compartment top panel 614 that are connected together by preformed fold lines.

In one or more examples, the third-compartment first side panel 604 is foldably (e.g., hingedly connected) to the first-compartment second side panel 514, opposite the first-compartment bottom panel 520. The third-compartment bottom panel 612 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the third-compartment first side panel 604, opposite the first-compartment second side panel 514. The third-compartment second side panel 606 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the third-compartment bottom panel 612, opposite the third-compartment first side panel 604. The third-compartment top panel 614 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the third-compartment second side panel 606, opposite the third-compartment bottom panel 612. The third-compartment third side panel 608 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the third-compartment first side panel 604. The third-compartment fourth side panel 610 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the third-compartment first side panel 604, opposite the third-compartment third side panel 608.

The third-compartment first side panel 604 forms, or defines, the third-compartment first sidewall 402. The third-compartment second side panel 606 forms, or defines, the third-compartment second sidewall 404. The third-compartment third side panel 608 forms, or defines, the third-compartment third sidewall 406. The third-compartment fourth side panel 610 forms, or defines, the third-compartment fourth sidewall 408. The third-compartment bottom panel 612 forms, or defines, the third-compartment bottom wall 410. The third-compartment top panel 614 forms, or defines, the third-compartment top wall 412.

In one or more examples, the first-compartment first side panel 512 extends from fold line 506 to fold line 536, which is generally parallel to fold line 506. The first-compartment bottom panel 520 extends from fold line 536 to fold line 538, which is generally parallel to fold line 536. The first-compartment second side panel 514 extends from fold line 538 to fold line 602, which is generally parallel to fold line 538. The first-compartment third side panel 516 extends from fold line 542, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold lines 536, 538. The first-compartment fourth side panel 518 extends from fold line 544, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold line 536, 538 and generally parallel to fold line 542.

In one or more examples, the second-compartment first side panel 524 extends from fold line 506 to fold line 546, which is generally parallel to fold line 506. The second-compartment bottom panel 532 extends from fold line 546 to fold line 548, which is generally parallel to fold line 546. The second-compartment second side panel 526 extends from fold line 548 to fold line 550, which is generally parallel to fold line 548. The second-compartment top panel 534 extends from fold line 550. The second-compartment third side panel 528 extends from fold line 552, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold lines 506, 546. The second-compartment fourth side panel 530 extends from fold line 554, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold line 506, 546 and generally parallel to fold line 552.

In one or more examples, the third-compartment first side panel 604 extends from fold line 602 to fold line 616, which is generally parallel to fold line 506. The third-compartment bottom panel 612 extends from fold line 616 to fold line 618, which is generally parallel to fold line 616. The third-compartment second side panel 606 extends from fold line 618 to fold line 620 which is generally parallel to fold line 618. The third-compartment top panel 614 extends from fold line 620. The third-compartment third side panel 608 extends from fold line 622, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold lines 602, 616. The third-compartment fourth side panel 610 extends from fold line 624, which is generally perpendicular to and extends between fold line 602, 616 and generally parallel to fold line 622.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes the second aperture 596 formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The second aperture 596 forms, or defines, the second opening 324 of the second compartment 300. The second aperture 596 may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the second aperture 596 is formed though the second-compartment top panel 534.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes a third aperture 626 formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The third aperture 626 forms, or defines, the third opening 424 of the third compartment 400. The third aperture 626 may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the third aperture 626 is formed though the third-compartment top panel 614.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes at least one additional aperture formed in (e.g., through) the blank 500. The additional aperture forms, or defines, additional opening of the second compartment 300 and/or the third compartment 400. The additional aperture may be cut out during formation of the blank 500. In one or more examples, the additional aperture is formed though the second-compartment top panel 534 and/or the third-compartment top panel 614.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 also includes a plurality of flaps 558. The flaps 558 are connected to corresponding ones of the panels 508 by corresponding ones of the fold line 510. Generally, the flaps 558 are used to construct the product container 100, secure the product container 100 in the assembled state, and/or provide additional rigidity or strength to the packaging structure of the product container 100.

In one or more examples, each one of the flaps 558 is connected to a corresponding one of the panels 508 (e.g., panels 512, 514, 516, 518, 528, 530, 532, 534, 608, 610, 612, 614 as shown in FIG. 6 ). Each one of the flaps 558 is foldably (e.g., hingedly) connected to the corresponding one of the panels 508. In one or more examples, each one of the flaps 558 extends from a corresponding fold line. In one or more examples, one or more of the flaps 558 is a closure flap and is configured to be folded into an engaged position with and connected to a corresponding panel 508 or other flap 558 to secure the product container 100 in the assembled state. In one or more examples, one or more of the flaps 558 is a glue flap and is configured to be folded into a face-to-face and parallel position with and connected (e.g., adhered) to a face of a corresponding panel 508 to secure the product container 100 in the assembled state. In one or more examples, one or more of the flaps 558 is a lip flap and is configured to be folded into a face-to-face and parallel position with a corresponding panel 508 to provide strength and/or rigidity to the product container 100 in the assembled state.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 includes at least one closure tab 588 and at least one closure aperture 590. At least a portion of the closure tab 588 is configured to be received by and to fit within the closure aperture 590 to secure one or more of the panel 508 of the blank 500 in the assembled state after construction of the product container 100. In one or more examples, the closure tab 588 extends from an edge of at least one of the flaps 558, opposite a corresponding fold line. The closure aperture 590, which corresponds to the closure tab 588, is formed through the blank 500 along at least one fold line.

By way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to a method for making the product container 100 from the blank 500. In one or more examples, the method includes a step of at least partially assembling the first compartment 200 of the product container 100 by folding the first compartment-defining portion 502 along a series of fold lines provided therein. The method also includes a step of at least partially assembling the second compartment 300 of the product container 100 by folding the second compartment-defining portion 504 along a series of fold lines provided therein. The second compartment 300 is pivotable about the hinged connection 106 relative to the first compartment 200 to convert the product container 100 between the closed state 102 and the open state 104. In the closed state 102, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are in a stacked configuration. In the open state 104, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are in a side-by-side configuration.

In one or more examples, the method further includes a step of at least partially assembling the third compartment 400 of the product container 100 by folding the third compartment-defining portion 600 along a series of fold lines provided therein. The third compartment 400 is pivotable about the second hinged connection 122 relative to the first compartment 200 to convert the product container 100 between the closed state 102 and the open state 104. In the closed state 102, the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 are in a stacked configuration, the first compartment 200 and the third compartment 400 are in a stacked configuration, and the second compartment 300 and the third compartment 400 are in a side-by-side configuration. In the open state 104, the first compartment 200, the second compartment 300, and the third compartment 400 are in a side-by-side configuration.

In one or more examples, the step of folding the first compartment-defining portion 502 includes a step of foldably (e.g., hingedly) moving each one of a first series of the plurality of panels 508 relative to another one of the first series of the plurality of panels 508 to construct the first compartment 200. For example, each one of the first series of the plurality of panels 508 is folded about a corresponding fold line into a position approximately perpendicular to a directly adjacent one of the first series of the plurality of panel 508 to which it is connected.

In one or more examples, the step of folding the first compartment-defining portion 502 also includes a step of foldably moving at least one of the plurality of flaps 558 relative to a corresponding one of the first series of the plurality of panels 508 to construct the first compartment 200 and secure the first compartment 200 in an assembled state.

In one or more examples, the step of folding the second compartment-defining portion 504 includes a step of foldably (e.g., hingedly) moving each one of a second series of the plurality of panels 508 relative to another one of the second series of the plurality of panels 508 to construct the second compartment 300. For example, each one of the second series of the plurality of panels 508 is folded about a corresponding fold line into a position approximately perpendicular to a directly adjacent one of the second series of the plurality of panel 508 to which it is connected.

In one or more examples, the step of folding the second compartment-defining portion 504 also includes a step of foldably moving at least one of the plurality of flaps 558 relative to a corresponding one of the second series of the plurality of panels 508 to construct the second compartment 300 and secure the second compartment 300 in an assembled state.

In one or more examples, the step of folding the third compartment-defining portion 600 includes a step of foldably (e.g., hingedly) moving each one of a third series of the plurality of panels 508 relative to another one of the third series of the plurality of panels 508 to construct the third compartment 400. For example, each one of the third series of the plurality of panels 508 is folded about a corresponding fold line into a position approximately perpendicular to a directly adjacent one of the third series of the plurality of panel 508 to which it is connected.

In one or more examples, the step of folding the third compartment-defining portion 600 also includes a step of foldably moving at least one of the plurality of flaps 558 relative to a corresponding one of the third series of the plurality of panels 508 to construct the third compartment 400 and secure the third compartment 400 in an assembled state.

By way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to a method for packaging product. In one or more examples, the method includes a step of at least partially assembling the first compartment 200 and the second compartment 300 of the product container 100 by folding the first compartment-defining portion 502 and the second compartment-defining portion 504 along a series of fold lines provided therein. In one or more examples, the method includes a step of, in the open state 104 of the product container 100, loading first product into the first compartment 200 and second product into the second compartment 300. The method further includes a step of pivoting the second compartment 300 relative to the first compartment 200 about the hinged connection 106 formed by one of the fold lines to convert the product container 100 from the open state 104 to the closed state 102.

In one or more examples, the method also includes a step of at least partially assembling the third compartment 400 of the product container 100 by folding the third compartment-defining portion 600 along a series of fold lines provided therein. In one or more examples, the method includes a step of, in the open state 104 of the product container 100, loading third product into the third compartment 400. The method further includes a step of pivoting the third compartment 400 relative to the first compartment 200 about the second hinged connection 122 formed by one of the fold lines to convert the product container 100 from the open state 104 to the closed state 102.

In one or more examples, after the product container 100 is loaded with product, such as first product contained by the first compartment 200, second product contained by the second compartment 300, and third product contained by the third compartment 400, and the product container 100 is converted to the closed state 102, the product container 100 is suitable for shipping or for stocking at a retail establishment. Once obtained by a consumer, the product container 100 can be converted from the closed state 102 to the open state 104, in which the product container 100 is suitable for display and/or dispensing of the product contained therein.

As such, the product container 100 beneficially takes the form of a shipper that is convertible into a product displayable gift box. As one specific example, the product container 100 takes the form of a shipper and gift box for diapers and other baby-related products, such as those given at a baby shower.

In a first example of the product container 100 (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 ), the first product is diapers, which are contained by the first compartment 200 and which are viewable and accessible via the first opening 224 when the product container 100 is converted to the open state 104. The second product is also diapers, which are contained by the second compartment 300 and which are viewable and accessible via the second opening 324 when the product container 100 is converted to the open state 104. Optionally, the third product is baby wipes, which are also contained by the first compartment 200 and which are viewable and accessible via the additional opening 226 when the product container 100 is converted to the open state 104.

In a second example of the product container 100 (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 6-10 ), the first product is baby supplies, baby wipes, toys, or other baby-related products, which are contained by the first compartment 200 and which are viewable and accessible via the first opening 224 when the product container 100 is converted to the open state 104. The second product is diapers, which are contained by the second compartment 300 and which are viewable and accessible via the second opening 324 when the product container 100 is converted to the open state 104. The third product is also diapers, which are contained by the third compartment 400 and which are viewable and accessible via the third opening 424 when the product container 100 is converted to the open state 104.

While baby-related products are provided as an example of the products contained by the product container 100, the product container 100 may be used as a convertible shipper and display box for any one of various types of products or consumer goods.

While the examples of the product container 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 and 6-10 show exemplary sizes, shapes, and/or configurations of the product container 100. In other examples, the product container 100 may have any other suitable size, shape, and/or configuration.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, as used herein, the term “container” refers to and/or includes any one of various types of packaging structures suitable for containing product, such as, but not limited to, a carton, a box, a case, a pack, a holder, or other suitable packaging structure.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, as used herein, the term “product” and “products” refers to and/or includes any one of various types of contents suitable to be contained by the product container 100, such as, but not limited to, consumer goods, articles of clothing, non-perishable foodstuff, or other articles of manufacture.

It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks 500 may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the packaging structure for the product container 100, as described in more detail herein below.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 is constructed from sheet material. The product container 100 may be constructed from the blank 500 of the sheet material using a machine and/or by hand. In one example, the blank 500 is fabricated from a corrugated cardboard material. However, in other examples, the blank 500 may be fabricated using any suitable material, and therefore is not limited to a specific type of material. In alternative examples, the blank 500 is fabricated using cardboard, plastic, fiberboard, paperboard, foamboard, corrugated paper, and/or any suitable material known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided.

In one or more examples, the product container 100 and/or the blank 500 includes at least one marking thereon including, without limitation, indicia that communicates the product, a manufacturer of the product and/or a seller of the product. For example, the marking may include printed text that indicates a product's name and briefly describes the product, logos and/or trademarks that indicate a manufacturer and/or seller of the product, and/or designs and/or ornamentation that attract attention. In other examples, the product container 100 is void of markings, such as, without limitation, indicia that communicates the product, a manufacturer of the product and/or a seller of the product.

Furthermore, the product container 100 may have any suitable size, shape and/or configuration, i.e., any suitable number of sides having any suitable size, shape and/or configuration as described and/or illustrated herein. In one or more examples, the product container 100 includes a shape that provides functionality, such as a shape that facilitates packaging product, a shape that facilitates transporting the product container 100 in the closed state 102, a shape that facilitates storing product in the product container 100 in the closed state 102, a shape that facilitates stacking and/or arrangement of a plurality of product containers 100 in the closed state 102, and/or a shape that facilitates displaying and/or dispensing product from the product container 100 in the open state 104.

In one or more examples, the product container 100 and/or the blank 500 is formed from a sheet material, such as a sheet of suitable substrate (e.g., paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like). In one or more examples, the sheet material is made of, or is coated with, materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package.

In one or more examples, one surface of the sheet material (e.g., forming the product container 100 or the blank 500) has different characteristics to the other surface. For example, an exterior surface of the sheet material (e.g., that faces outwardly from an assembled product container 100) may be particularly smooth and/or may have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability. An interior surface of the sheet material (e.g., that faces inwardly) may be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment, or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties. Additional functional coatings and/or barrier coatings that provide other properties, such as liquid-resistance, moisture-resistance, and the like, my also be applied to one or both surfaces of the sheet material.

In one or more examples, the blank 500 and, thus, the product container 100 are formed from a sheet material, such as a paperboard substrate. The paperboard substrate may be, for example, a solid bleached sulfate (SBS) substrate, an uncoated natural kraft (UNC) substrate, or a coated natural kraft (CNK) substrate. The paperboard substrate may be formed from virgin fibers, recycled fibers, or combinations thereof.

In one or more examples, the product container 100 is made of cardboard or other suitable heavy-duty paper-based material. In one or more examples, the product container 100 is made of corrugated board, such as corrugated board that includes two liner sheets and an inner fluted corrugated material sandwiched between and coupled to the liner sheets. Use of corrugated board advantageously provides beneficial durability and other mechanical attributes, such as rigidity and foldability, to the product container 100.

Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may be, but are not necessarily, claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure are provided above. Reference herein to “example” means that one or more feature, structure, element, component, characteristic, and/or operational step described in connection with the example is included in at least one aspect, embodiment, and/or implementation of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. Thus, the phrases “an example,” “another example,” “one or more examples,” and similar language throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Further, the subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, include the subject matter characterizing any other example. Moreover, the subject matter characterizing any one example may be, but is not necessarily, combined with the subject matter characterizing any other example.

The preceding detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples of the disclosed product container, blank, and methods described by the present disclosure. It will be understood that the disclosed examples are merely exemplary embodiments of the way in which certain aspects of the of the disclosed product container and method can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the of the disclosed product container and method may be embodied. Other examples having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Like reference numerals may refer to the same feature, element, or component in the different drawings. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Throughout the present disclosure, any one of a plurality of items may be referred to individually as the item and a plurality of items may be referred to collectively as the items. Moreover, as used herein, a feature, element, component, or step preceded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding a plurality of features, elements, components or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.

It is to be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular example described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain examples may be configured to operate in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

It should be appreciated that, when used to modify a structure, an element, an item, a component or a feature described herein, the terms “front,” “back,” “rear,” “bottom,” “top,” “left,” “right,” “side,” “end,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” as well as similar terms or other forms of such terms, are relative and refer to an example of a spatial relationship between structures, elements, items, components or features. As such, examples of the blank 500 and the product container 100, described herein and illustrated in the figures, are not intended to be limited by the specific relative terms used to describe any structure, element, item, component or feature thereof.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

Conditional language such as, among others, “can” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, are otherwise understood within the context as used in general to convey that certain examples include, while other examples do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more examples or that one or more examples necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular example.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all elements described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 need be included in every example and not all elements described herein are necessarily depicted in each illustrative example. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the schematic illustrations of the examples depicted in FIGS. 1-11 are not meant to imply structural limitations with respect to the illustrative example. Rather, although one illustrative structure is indicated, it is to be understood that the structure may be modified when appropriate. Additionally, modifications, additions and/or omissions may be made to the illustrated structure.

Further, references throughout the present specification to features, advantages, or similar language used herein do not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the examples disclosed herein should be, or are in, any single example. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one example. Thus, discussion of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example.

The described features, advantages, and characteristics of one example may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other examples. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the examples described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular example. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain examples that may not be present in all examples. Furthermore, although various examples of the product container 100, the blank 500, and methods have been shown and described, modifications may occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification. The present application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A product container (100) comprising: a first compartment (200) comprising a first-compartment first edge (214); a second compartment (300) comprising a second-compartment first edge (314); and a hinged connection (106) extending between the first-compartment first edge (214) and the second-compartment first edge (314), wherein: the second compartment (300) is pivotable about the hinged connection (106) relative to the first compartment (200) to convert the product container (100) between a closed state (102) and an open state (104); in the closed state (102), the first compartment (200) and the second compartment (300) are in a stacked configuration; and in the open state (104), the first compartment (200) and the second compartment (300) are in a side-by-side configuration.
 2. The product container (100) of claim 1, wherein the hinged connection (106) is integral to the first compartment (200) and the second compartment (300).
 3. The product container (100) of claim 1, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment first sidewall (202); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment first sidewall (302); in the closed state (102), the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the second-compartment first sidewall (302) are coplanar and form a first sidewall (108) of the product container (100); and in the open state (104), the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the second-compartment first sidewall (302) face each other.
 4. The product container (100) of claim 3, wherein the hinged connection (110) connects the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the second-compartment first sidewall (302) together.
 5. The product container (100) of claim 3, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment second edge (216), opposite the first-compartment first edge (214); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment second edge (316), opposite the second-compartment first edge (314); in the closed state (102), the second-compartment second edge (316) and the first-compartment second edge (216) are adjacent to each other; and in the open state (104), the second-compartment second edge (316) and the first-compartment second edge (216) are spaced away from each other.
 6. The product container (100) of claim 3, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment second sidewall (204), opposite the first-compartment first sidewall (202); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment second sidewall (304), opposite the second-compartment first sidewall (302); in the closed state (102), the first-compartment second sidewall (204) and the second-compartment second sidewall (304) are coplanar and form a second sidewall (110) of the product container (100); and in the open state (104), the first-compartment second sidewall (204) and the second-compartment second sidewall (304) are parallel to each other.
 7. The product container (100) of claim 6, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment top wall (212), extending between the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the first-compartment second sidewall (204); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment top wall (312), extending between the second-compartment first sidewall (302) and the second-compartment second sidewall (304); in the closed state (102), the first-compartment top wall (212) and the second-compartment top wall (312) face each other; and in the open state (104), the first-compartment top wall (212) and the second-compartment top wall (312) are coplanar and form a top wall (118) of the product container (100).
 8. The product container (100) of claim 7, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first opening (224) formed through the first-compartment top wall (212) to access a first product contained within the first compartment (200); and the second compartment (300) further comprises a second opening (140324 formed through the second-compartment top wall (312) to access a second product contained within the second compartment (300).
 9. The product container (100) of claim 1, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment second edge (216), opposite the first-compartment first edge (214); the product container (100) further comprises: a third compartment (400) comprising a third-compartment first edge (414); and a second hinged connection (122) extending between the first-compartment second edge (216) and the third-compartment first edge (414); the third compartment (400) is pivotable about the second hinged connection (122) relative to the first compartment (200) to convert the product container (100) between the closed state (102) and the open state (104); in the closed state (102), the first compartment (200) and the third compartment (400) are in a stacked configuration; in the closed state (102), the second compartment (300) and the third compartment (400) are in a side-by-side configuration; and in the open state (104), the first compartment (200), the second compartment (300), and the third compartment (400) are in a side-by-side configuration.
 10. The product container (100) of claim 9, wherein the second hinged connection (122) is integral to the first compartment (200) and the third compartment (400).
 11. The product container (100) of claim 9, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment first sidewall (202) and a first-compartment second sidewall (204), opposite the first-compartment first sidewall (202); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment first sidewall (302); the third compartment (400) further comprises a third-compartment first sidewall (402); in the closed state (102), the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the second-compartment first sidewall (302) are coplanar and form a first sidewall (108) of the product container (100); in the closed state (102), the first-compartment second sidewall (204) and the third-compartment first sidewall (402) are coplanar and form a second sidewall (110) of the product container (100); in the open state (104), the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the second-compartment first sidewall (302) face each other; and in the open state (104), the first-compartment second sidewall (204) and the third-compartment first sidewall (402) face each other.
 12. The product container (100) of claim 11, wherein: the hinged connection (106) connects the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the second-compartment first sidewall (302) together; and the second hinged connection (122) connects the first-compartment second sidewall (204) and the third-compartment first sidewall (402) together.
 13. The product container (100) of claim 11, wherein: the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment second edge (316), opposite the second-compartment first edge (314); the third compartment (400) further comprises a third-compartment second edge (416), opposite the third-compartment first edge (414); in the closed state (102), the second-compartment second edge (316) and the third-compartment second edge (416) are adjacent to each other; and in the open state (104), the second-compartment second edge (316) and the third-compartment second edge (416) are spaced away from each other.
 14. The product container (100) of claim 11, wherein: the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment second sidewall (304), opposite the second-compartment first sidewall (302); the third compartment (400) further comprises a third-compartment second sidewall (404), opposite the third-compartment first sidewall (402); in the closed state (102), the second-compartment second sidewall (304) and the third-compartment second sidewall (404) are face each other; and in the open state (104), the second-compartment second sidewall (304) and the third-compartment second sidewall (404) are parallel to each other.
 15. The product container (100) of claim 14, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first-compartment bottom wall (210), extending between the first-compartment first sidewall (202) and the first-compartment second sidewall (204); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second-compartment top wall (312), extending between the second-compartment first sidewall (302) and the second-compartment second sidewall (304); the third compartment (400) further comprises a third-compartment top wall (412), extending between the third-compartment first sidewall (402) and the third-compartment second sidewall (404); in the closed state (102), the second-compartment top wall (312) and the third-compartment top wall (412) are coplanar and face the first-compartment bottom wall (210); and in the open state (104), the second-compartment top wall (312) and the third-compartment top wall (412) are coplanar and form a top wall (118) of the product container (100).
 16. The product container (100) of claim 15, wherein: the first compartment (200) further comprises a first opening (224) to access a first product contained within the first compartment (200); the second compartment (300) further comprises a second opening (324) formed through the second-compartment top wall (312) to access a second product contained within the second compartment (300); and the third compartment (400) further comprises a third opening (424) formed through the third-compartment top wall (412) to access a third product contained within the third compartment (400).
 17. The product container (100) of claim 1, wherein the product container (100) is formed a one-piece blank (500).
 18. A blank (500) for forming a product container (100), the blank (200) comprising: a first compartment-defining portion (502) comprising a first series of a plurality of panels (508); and a second compartment-defining portion (504) comprising a second series of the plurality of panels (508), wherein the second compartment-defining portion (504) extends from the first compartment-defining portion (502) along a fold line (506).
 19. A method of making a product container (100) from a blank (500), the method comprising: at least partially assembling a first compartment (200) of the product container (100) by folding a first compartment-defining portion (502) along a first series of a plurality of fold lines (510) provided therein; and at least partially assembling a second compartment (300) of the product container (100) by folding a second compartment-defining portion (504) along a second series of the plurality of fold lines (510) provided therein, wherein: the second compartment (300) is pivotable about a hinged connection (106) relative to the first compartment (200) to convert the product container (100) between a closed state (102) and an open state (104); in the closed state (102), the first compartment (200) and the second compartment (300) are in a stacked configuration; and in the open state (104), the first compartment (200) and the second compartment (300) are in a side-by-side configuration.
 20. A method for packaging product, the method comprising: at least partially assembling a first compartment (200) and a second compartment (300) of a product container (100) by folding a first compartment-defining portion (502) and a second compartment-defining portion (504) along a plurality of fold lines (510) provided therein; in an open state (104) of the product container (100), loading a first product into the first compartment (200) and a second product into the second compartment (300); and pivoting the second compartment (300) relative to the first compartment (200) about a hinged connection (106) formed by one of the plurality of fold lines (510) to convert the product container (100) from the open state (104) to a closed state (102). 